Social Security and Medicare are faced with declining revenues and increasing expenses. Now, more than ever, it is up to the individual American to be proactive in saving for retirement. It is highly unlikely that Social Security or Medicare would be abolished. The programs will be “tweaked and tuned” by Congress to ensure sustainability. The potential tweaking and tunings are well known: delay age for...

Roth IRAs were legislated in 1997 and are named after the late Senator William. Roth from Delaware. There are some similarities with traditional IRAs and some significant differences.
Similar to traditional IRAs
2017 & 2018 maximum contribution is $5,500
Those 50 and older can contribute an additional $1,000 in 2017 & 2018. The $5,500 maximum contribution and catch up provision apply in the aggregate for the IRAs...

College costs continue to increase, although the rate of increase has slowed. Every fall, the College Board releases updated figures for college expenses. Here are the numbers for the current school year, 2017-2018:
In state Public College and Universities
Out of State Public College and Universities
Private College and Universities
2 year Public Colleges
Tuition
$9,970
$25,620
$34,740
$3,570
Room...

It is important to properly plan one’s tax responsibility. Like individual taxpayers, the Federal and State governments have experienced financial distress and are becoming more aggressive in collecting taxes. A sound tax plan will help to minimize taxes and avoid surprises. Here are some general tips:
Adjust W4 with employer to minimize over/under withholding.
For tax year 2017, “Bunch” miscellaneous and medical...

Social Security and Medicare are faced with declining revenues and increasing expenses. Now, more than ever, it is up to the individual American to be proactive in saving for retirement.
Contribute to Employer Retirement Plans such as 401(k)s, 403(b)s, 457s.
2017 maximum contribution is $18,000; 2018 maximum contribution is $18,500.
Those 50 and older can contribute an additional $6,000 in 2017 and...